Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS to pass Earth on 19 December, here’s why it’s drawing global scientific attention

Interstellar comet 3i/ATLAS makes safe close approach to Earth on December 19 (Image: NASA)

3I/ATLAS, interstellar comet will approach Earth on 19th December.  It is only the third confirmed object from another star. Scientists are closely monitoring its path as it nears our planet. The flyby provides a unique chance to study distant material.

3I/ATLAS was discovered in mid‑2025 by the ATLAS survey. Observations show it has a bright coma and visible tail. It passed closest to the Sun in October this year. The comet displays activity typical of objects from interstellar space. Its composition may reveal clues about other star systems’ chemistry.

The comet will make its closest approach on December 19. It will be around 167 million miles from our planet. This distance is scientifically close but poses no risk to Earth. NASA's telescopes will provide the best views of this unique visitor. Observers can track it before it continues out toward Jupiter.

Interstellar objects are extremely rare, with only two before confirmed. They carry material not formed in the Solar System. Studying them improves understanding of galactic formation and chemical processes. 3I/ATLAS offers scientists a once-in-a-lifetime observation opportunity nearby. It could reveal new insights into distant planetary systems.

The astronomers worldwide are tracking the comet using professional observatories. European and American space agencies are gathering data on its behaviour. They analyse light, tail structure and orbital trajectory closely. Citizen scientists are also encouraged to contribute telescope observations. The combined effort will improve knowledge of interstellar visitors.

Although 3I/ATLAS is not visible to the naked eye, telescopes can track it. Astronomers with mid-sized telescopes may capture its bright coma and tail. The comet is best observed during local night hours away from city lights. Astrophotography enthusiasts can image the comet’s dust and gas features clearly. Charts and ephemeris data from astronomy websites help point telescopes accurately.

After Earth’s flyby, 3I/ATLAS will move away toward Jupiter. It will become fainter and harder to observe over time. Scientists hope to study its material composition from collected data. Future interstellar visitors will be compared with this rare example. This flyby underscores humanity’s growing ability to track cosmic wanderers.